Violent storm leaves 89 dead, widespread destruction in Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow : A violent storm accompanied by heavy rain, lightning and strong winds has swept across India’s most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, killing at least 89 people and causing widespread destruction across multiple districts.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the storm, which struck on Wednesday evening, left a trail of devastation in several parts of the state, with authorities confirming that dozens were also injured as trees were uprooted, houses collapsed, and power infrastructure damaged.
The Relief Commissioner’s office said in a post on X on Thursday that strong winds, heavy rainfall and lightning resulted in 89 deaths and 53 injuries across the state. In addition, 87 houses were destroyed and 114 livestock animals were killed.
Officials said the worst-hit regions reported multiple fatalities due to lightning strikes, falling debris, and structural collapses as the severe weather system moved rapidly across rural and urban districts.
Authorities said a final report on the damages is being prepared.
Meteorological officials noted that such pre-monsoon storms are common in northern India, but the intensity of this system led to unusually high casualties and destruction.
